The Tasting Room
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 358-7831
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Between Houston Street and Prince Street
- Directions:
- N, R at Prince St; B, D, F, V at Broadway-Lafayette St
- Hours:
- Tue-Thu 5:30pm-10:30pm, Fri 5:30pm-11pm, Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-9pm
Editorial Review for The Tasting Room – by Kathleen Squires
The Scene
It was only a matter of time before Colin and Rene Alevras outgrew their claustrophobic East Village homestead, and their loyal following seems especially pleased for the now-sizable elbow room. The rustic charm of the popular original made the move to Nolita as well, with wood-beamed walls, cork-topped tables, and quirky paintings strewn throughout a walk-in friendly front niche and lively main dining room. Stylish young wine enthusiasts occupy nearly every table.
The Food
The former space's small-plates concept may have been shelved, but the greenmarket-driven dictate is still in place. The oft-changing menu submits surprises like crispy-fried blowfish, its juicy cod-like meat flaking off the bone, alongside comforting favorites like a browned, moist roast chicken with carrots. The kitchen isn't afraid to perk up basic flavors, emboldening sea scallops with an intense citrus bite, for example. Desserts, like an airy brioche bread pudding with pear ice cream, strike a perfect homey-sophisticated balance.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkThe once American-only wine list has expanded to include some international favorites. Otherwise, try handcrafted retro cocktails like the Moscow mule (muddled ginger, lime, vodka) or homemade sodas like cola or ginger ale.
The ExtrasThe original space on East 1st Street will open soon as more casual cafe and wine bar.
Know Before You GoThe front room is held exclusively for walk-ins; another room tucked behind the main dining area is perfect for large groups or private parties.
User Reviews for The Tasting Room
05/18/2008 Posted by FlannMan
The Tasting Room has not made a successful transition to its bigger setting, which is a shame. The new(ish) place has unfortunately spotty service and inexplicably long waits for food with no apologies offered, even from the manager when called over. When it arrives, the food is decent but not spectacular, and while the wine offerings are interesting, there's nothing here that you couldn't find in any NoHo eaterie. Those remembering the charming and special former incarnation will be disappointed.
05/04/2008 Posted by buttercup525
I have wanted to go to this restaurant for a while and when my friend's birthday came around I thought it would be a great opportunity to check it out. Unfortunately, the experience was pretty underwhelming. The starters we had were reasonable, but the entrees definitely left something to be desired. My friend (whose birthday it was) had to send back her fish b/c it was undercooked (gasp!) and the other entree she chose instead wasn't much better for her. My fish was ok. The flavor was pretty non-existent and the accompanying vegetables were just meh. My husband had pork rib that he was not into at all. The dessert (loved the beer ice cream that was the substitute ice cream flavor in the ice cream sandwich) and the cocktails (love the Southside) somewhat made up for it until we got the bill...Yowza! It came out to be about $120 each for 6 people (granted we treated our friend but still...)...um, for food that is really not that great I would say that's pretty darn steep. Overall I was pretty disappointed with the food. I really thought it would be great. The place has it goin' on with the decor and atmosphere but the food definitely leaves something to be desired. I will not return here for dinner nor would I recommend this place to a friend. Sorry Tasting Room...dems da brakes.
Pros: Nice atmosphere, good art on the walls
Cons: nice atmosphere and good art on the walls does not make up for the so so food and steep proce tag
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